THE CANDLELIGHT SESSIONS at Phil Grimes' pub are the first rung on the ladder for many aspiring musicians. Proprietor Tom Ryan and chief rabble-rouser Johnny Kiely explain why this live gem is an important part of the Irish music scene.
Twelve months ago, Declan O'Rourke was almost unheard of. Since then, his record has acheived platinum status. On the eve of his biggest tour ever, O'Rourke talks about a year in the maelstrom.
Paul Brady and Eddi Reader are raving about his work, and his album is surging up the charts – but Ireland’s latest singer-songwriter sensation Declan O’Rourke is still making his own breakfast.
Despite sharing a home with fellow troubador Paddy Casey, singer-songwriter Declan O’Rourke isn’t one for late-night acoustic sessions. You’re far more likely to find him kicking back with a Coen brothers box-set and musing on the early exploration of Antarctica.
It’s getting rather crowded round at Singer-Songwriter Towers, but Declan O’Rourke’s first full album suggests he’s too good not to be given his own room.
To make up for the frustration of having to wait until next year for a new album, Declan O’Rourke fans can bag themselves a Special Edition version of his Since Kyabram album.
Declan O’Rourke has confirmed the September release of his second album, Big Bad Beautiful World, which was recorded in the same Westmeath studio used recently by Bloc Party, Editors and Michael Jackson, Grouse Lodge.
